Roma Mitchell Commonwealth Law Courts, Australia

The considered and carefully coordinated design, planning and construction of the Roma Mitchell Commonwealth Law Courts created an instantly recognisable landmark building for the city of Adelaide.

This challenging project required the construction of an eleven-storey building, comprising three central elements: the main tower houses the courtrooms in the lower levels, with judges’ chambers located on the upper floors; a smaller tower accommodates court staff; and the distinctive Opal Building is home to seven court rooms, including the High Court and a dedicated indigenous court.

Aurecon was commissioned to provide total engineering services for the development, which needed to reflect the judges’ desire for a building filled with natural light as a symbol of justice.

To maximise natural lighting, the courtrooms were situated around the building’s perimeter, with secure access for judges provided by dedicated lifts from their chambers.